System and method for providing vehicle and fleet profiles and presentations of trends

ABSTRACT

A computer system and products and methods therefor including at least one computer processor and computer readable storage medium or media including computer code and at least one storage device in which is stored GPS data for a plurality of vehicles the system including: a memory including a GPS event database including GPS event data transmitted from a plurality of GPS devices. The GPS event data is analyzed to derive a plurality of operational metrics for each of a plurality of vehicles. At least one trend for a GPS event history using the GPS event data is identified and a graphic user interface is provided with a representation including a representation of the at least one trend.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 61/473,582, filed Apr. 8, 2011, and titled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING VEHICLE AND FLEET PROFILES,” the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

It is known to provide an on-board unit which uses technology such as GPS (Global Positioning System) to monitor a vehicle's positions and transmit wireless uploads to a central host system as well as manage of incoming data traffic without data losses or corruption and/or without database record locking. Such a unit may also upload vehicle status events such as engine fault events. GB2345824 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,388,518 describes such systems and methods therefor, the entirety of each of which are incorporated by reference herein.

SUMMARY

A computer system including at least one computer processor and computer readable storage medium or media including computer code and at least one storage device in which is stored GPS data for a plurality of vehicles the system comprising: a memory including GPS event database including GPS event data transmitted from a plurality of GPS devices, each GPS device associated with a vehicle, and stored over a period of time; and the one or more processors programmed at least to: receive GPS event data transmitted from a plurality of GPS devices, each GPS device associated with a vehicle; for each vehicle, store in GPS event database operatively coupled to at least one of the processors, the GPS event data; analyze the GPS event data to derive a plurality of operational metrics for each of a plurality of vehicles; identify, from the analysis, at least one trend for a GPS event history using the GPS event data; and provide, for a graphic user interface, a representation including a representation of the at least one trend.

A method comprising, in at least one computer and a computer readable storage medium or media including computer code: receiving GPS event data transmitted from a plurality of GPS devices, each GPS device associated with a vehicle; for each vehicle, storing in GPS event database operatively coupled to at least one of the processors, the GPS event data; analyzing the GPS event data to derive a plurality of operational metrics for each of a plurality of vehicles; identifying, from the analysis, at least one trend for a GPS event history using the GPS event data; and providing, for a graphic user interface, a representation including a representation of the at least one trend.

A computer program product comprising a computer-readable storage medium encoded with instructions that, when executed by at least one processor within a computer system that comprises one or more processors and a memory operatively coupled to at least one of the processors, cause the computer system at least to: receive GPS event data transmitted from a plurality of GPS devices, each GPS device associated with a vehicle; for each vehicle, store in GPS event database operatively coupled to at least one of the processors, the GPS event data analyze the GPS event data to derive a plurality of operational metrics for each of a plurality of vehicles; identify, from the analysis, at least one trend for a GPS event history using the GPS event data; and provide, for a graphic user interface, a representation including a representation of the at least one trend.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments are illustrated in the figures of the accompanying drawings, which are meant to be exemplary and not limiting, and in which like references are intended to refer to like or corresponding things.

FIGS. 1A-1D are block diagrams of a representative computer system.

FIG. 2 depicts a representative GPS system.

FIGS. 3A-3K depicts exemplary representations for graphic user interfaces.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are flowcharts depicting exemplary processes.

FIGS. 6A-6C are an exemplary flow showing GPS event data analysis.

FIG. 7 depicts an exemplary display representation for a ground level representation of a route.

FIG. 8 depicts an exemplary display representation for a sequence of ground level representations of a route.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

It is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of the present invention have been simplified to illustrate elements that are relevant for a clear understanding of the present invention, while eliminating, for purposes of clarity, many other elements which are conventional in this art. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other elements are desirable for implementing the present invention. However, because such elements are well known in the art, and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, a discussion of such elements is not provided herein.

The use of the terms “a,” “an,” “at least one,” “one or more,” and similar terms indicate one of a feature or element as well as more than one of a feature. The use of the term “the” to refer to the feature does not imply only one of the feature and element.

When an ordinal number (such as “first,” “second,” “third,” and so on) is used as an adjective before a term, that ordinal number is used (unless expressly or clearly specified otherwise) merely to indicate a particular feature, such as to distinguish that particular feature from another feature that is described by the same term or by a similar term.

When a single device, article or other product is described herein, more than one device/article (whether or not they cooperate) may alternatively be used in place of the single device/article that is described. Accordingly, the functionality that is described as being possessed by a device may alternatively be possessed by more than one device/article (whether or not they cooperate). Similarly, where more than one device, article or other product is described herein (whether or not they cooperate), a single device/article may alternatively be used in place of the more than one device or article that is described. Accordingly, the various functionality that is described as being possessed by more than one device or article may alternatively be possessed by a single device/article.

The functionality and/or the features of a single device that is described may be alternatively embodied by one or more other devices which are described but are not explicitly described as having such functionality/features. Thus, other embodiments need not include the described device itself, but rather can include the one or more other devices which would, in those other embodiments, have such functionality/features.

The present invention will now be described in detail on the basis of exemplary embodiments. The invention disclosed herein may be practiced using programmable digital computers and networks therefor.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, disclosed is a system 100, which includes a computer 140 containing a processor 145, memory 157 and other components typically present in general purpose computers.

FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a representative computer. The computer system 140 includes at least one processor 145, such as an Intel Core™ or Xeon™ series microprocessor or a Freescale™ PowerPC™ microprocessor, coupled to a communications channel 147. The computer system 140 further includes an input device 149 such as, e.g., a keyboard or mouse, an output device 151 such as, e.g., a CRT or LCD display, a communications interface 153, a data storage device 155 such as a magnetic disk or an optical disk, and memory 157 such as Random-Access Memory (RAM), each coupled to the communications channel 147. The communications interface 153 may be coupled to a network such as the Internet.

Memory 157 stores information accessible by processor 145, including instructions that may be executed by the processor 145. It also includes data that may be retrieved, manipulated or stored by the processor. The memory may be of any type capable of storing information accessible by the processor, such as a hard-drive, memory card, ROM, RAM, DVD, CD-ROM, write-capable, and read-only memories. The processor 145 may be any well-known processor, such as processors from Intel Corporation or AMD. Alternatively, the processor may be a dedicated controller such as an ASIC.

The instructions may be any set of instructions to be executed directly (such as machine code) or indirectly (such as scripts) by the processor. In that regard, the terms “instructions,” “steps” and “programs” may be used interchangeably herein. The instructions may be stored in object code format for direct processing by the processor, or in any other computer language including scripts or collections of independent source code modules that are interpreted on demand or compiled in advance. Functions, methods and routines of the instructions are explained in more detail below.

One skilled in the art will recognize that, although the data storage device 155 and memory 157 are depicted as different units, the data storage device 155 and memory 157 can be parts of the same unit or units, and that the functions of one can be shared in whole or in part by the other, e.g., as RAM disks, virtual memory, etc. It will also be appreciated that any particular computer may have multiple components of a given type, e.g., processors 145, input devices 149, communications interfaces 153, etc.

The data storage device 155 and/or memory 157 may store an operating system 160 such as Microsoft Windows 7®, Windows XP® or Vista™, Linux®, Mac OS®, or Unix®. Other programs 162 may be stored instead of or in addition to the operating system. It will be appreciated that a computer system may also be implemented on platforms and operating systems other than those mentioned. Any operating system 160 or other program 162, or any part of either, may be written using one or more programming languages such as, e.g., Java®, C, C++, C#, Visual Basic®, VB.NET®, Perl, Ruby, Python, or other programming languages, possibly using object oriented design and/or coding techniques.

Data may be retrieved, stored or modified by processor 145 in accordance with the instructions. For instance, although the system and method is not limited by any particular data structure, the data may be stored in computer registers, in a relational database as a table having a plurality of different fields and records, XML documents, or flat files. The data may also be formatted in any computer-readable format such as, but not limited to, binary values, ASCII or Unicode. By further way of example only, image data may be stored as bitmaps comprised of pixels that are stored in compressed or uncompressed, or lossless or lossy formats (e.g., JPEG), vector-based formats (e.g., SVG) or computer instructions for drawing graphics. Moreover, the data may comprise any information sufficient to identify the relevant information, such as numbers, descriptive text, proprietary codes, pointers, references to data stored in other memories (including other network locations) or information that is used by a function to calculate the relevant data.

It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the processor and memory may actually comprise multiple processors and memories that may or may not be stored within the same physical housing. For example, some of the instructions and data may be stored on removable CD-ROM and others within a read-only computer chip. Some or all of the instructions and data may be stored in a location physically remote from, yet still accessible by, the processor. Similarly, the processor may actually comprise a collection of processors which may or may not operate in parallel.

One skilled in the art will recognize that the computer system 140 may also include additional components and/or systems, such as network connections, additional memory, additional processors, network interfaces, input/output busses, for example. One skilled in the art will also recognize that the programs and data may be received by and stored in the system in alternative ways. For example, a computer-readable storage medium (CRSM) reader 164, such as, e.g., a magnetic disk drive, magneto-optical drive, optical disk drive, or flash drive, may be coupled to the communications bus 147 for reading from a computer-readable storage medium (CRSM) 166 such as, e.g., a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, or flash RAM. Accordingly, the computer system 140 may receive programs and/or data via the CRSM reader 164. Further, it will be appreciated that the term “memory” herein is intended to include various types of suitable data storage media, whether permanent or temporary, including among other things the data storage device 155, the memory 157, and the CSRM 166.

Two or more computer systems 140 may be connected, e.g., in one dr more networks, via, e.g., their respective communications interfaces 155 and/or network interfaces (not depicted).

A computer system network is shown in FIG. 1B. A network 182 may, for example, connect one or more workstations 184 with each other and with other computer systems, such as file servers 186 or mail servers 188. The connection may be achieved tangibly, e.g., via Ethernet® or optical cables, or wirelessly, e.g., through use of modulated microwave signals according to the IEEE 802.11 family of standards. A computer system that participates in the network may send data to another computer system in the network via the network connection.

One use of a network 180 is to enable a computer system to provide services to other computer systems, consume services provided by other computer systems, or both. For example, a file server 186 may provide common storage of files for one or more of the workstations 190 on a network 182. A workstation 190 sends data including a request for a file to the file server 186 via the network 182 and the file server 186 may respond by sending the data from the file back to the requesting workstation 190.

As will be recognized by those skilled in the relevant art, the terms “workstation,” “client,” and “server” are used herein to describe a computer's function in a particular context. A workstation may, for example, be a computer that one or more users work with directly, e.g., through a keyboard and monitor directly coupled to the computer system. A computer system that requests a service through a network is often referred to as a client, and a computer system that provides a service is often referred to as a server. But any particular workstation may be indistinguishable in its hardware, configuration, operating system, and/or other software from a client, server, or both.

In one aspect, computer 204 is a server communicating with one or more client computers 184,192. For example, computer 204 may be a web server or a hub and data storage service. Each client computer may be configured similarly to the server 184, 192, with a processor, memory and instructions 240. Each client computer 184, 192 may be a personal computer, intended for use by a person, having all the internal components normally found in a personal computer such as a central processing unit (CPU), display device 151 (for example, a monitor having a screen, a projector, a touch-screen, a small LCD screen, a television, or another device such as an electrical device that is operable to display information processed by the processor), CD-ROM, hard-drive, user input 149 (for example, a mouse, keyboard, touch-screen or microphone), speakers, modem and/or network interface device (telephone, cable or otherwise) and all of the components used for connecting these elements to one another. Moreover, computers in accordance with the systems and methods described herein may comprise any device capable of processing instructions and transmitting data to and from humans and other computers including general purpose computers, PDAs, network computers lacking local storage capability, and set-top boxes for televisions.

Although the client computers 184, 192 may comprise a full-sized personal computer, the system and method may also be used in connection with mobile devices capable of wirelessly exchanging data with a server over a network such as the Internet. For example, client computer 1184,192 may be a wireless-enabled PDA such as an iPhone, and Android enabled smart phone, a Blackberry phone, or another Internet-capable cellular phone. In either regard, the user may input information using a small keyboard (in the case of a Blackberry phone), a keypad (in the case of a typical cell phone), a touch screen (in the case of a PDA and/or smart phone) or any other means of user input.

Client computers 184, 192 may include a component, such as circuits, to determine the geographic location of the device. For example, mobile device may include a GPS receiver. By way of further example, the component may include software for determining the position of the device based on other signals received at the mobile device, such as signals received at a cell phone's antenna from one or more cell phone towers if the mobile device is a cell phone.

Servers 186, 188, 202, 204 and client computers 184 and 192 are capable of direct and indirect communication, such as over a network 180, 200. Although only a few computers are depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B, it should be appreciated that a typical system can include a large number of connected computers, with each different computer being at a different node of the network 200. The network, and intervening nodes, may comprise various configurations and protocols including the Internet, World Wide Web, intranets, virtual private networks, wide area networks, local networks, private networks using communication protocols proprietary to one or more companies, Ethernet, WiFi and HTTP, and various combinations of the foregoing. Such communication may be facilitated by any device capable of transmitting data to and from other computers, such as moderns (e.g., dial-up, cable or fiber optic) and wireless interfaces.

Although certain advantages are obtained when information is transmitted or received as noted above, other aspects of the system and method are not limited to any particular manner of transmission of information. For example, in some aspects, information may be sent via a medium such as a disk, tape or CD-ROM. In other aspects, the information may be transmitted in a non-electronic format and manually entered into the system. Yet further, although some functions are indicated as taking place on a server and others on a client, various aspects of the system and method may be implemented by a single computer having a single processor.

A network 182 may be connected to one or more other networks 180, e.g., via a router 196. A router 196 may also act as a firewall, monitoring and/or restricting the flow of data to and/or from a network 180 as configured to protect the network. A firewall may alternatively be a separate device (not pictured) from the router 196

A network of networks 180 may be referred to as an internet. The term “the Internet” 200 refers to the worldwide network of interconnected, packet-switched data networks that uses the Internet Protocol (IP) to route and transfer data. A client and server on different networks may communicate via the Internet 200. For example, a workstation 190 may request a World Wide Web document from a Web Server 202. The Web Server 202 may process the request and pass it to, e.g., an Application Server 204. The Application Server 204 may then conduct further processing, which may include, for example, sending data to and/or receiving data from one or more other data sources. Such a data source may include, e.g., other servers on the same network.

For example in one embodiment, an on-board GPS unit uploads information (e.g. via a hub 153) about a vehicle v1, v2 . . . vn to a central host system 208. Information about the vehicle derived from the GPS information can be presented to a user on a display device 151, for example, as a layout shown in FIG. 2.

In one embodiment, the system is programmed at least to receive GPS even data recorded by a GPS (Global Positioning System) device, for example, using an on-board unit which uses technology such as GPS to monitor a vehicle's positions and transmit wireless uploads to a central host system. Referring to FIG. 2 a vehicle tracking system comprises on-board units 1 in vehicles v1, v2, v3 . . . vn, which communicate wirelessly via mobile networks 2 to gateways 3. In this diagram two wireless protocols are indicated, namely GPRS and SMS. However there are typically a variety of additional protocols. The gateways 3 communicate using protocols such as UDP and TCP via the Internet 4 with a host system 7 having receivers 5 which are operating system services, and a data storage system 6. The incoming data is written from the receivers 5 to the data storage system 6, which includes a communication hub 153 and database 208. GB2345824 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,388,518 describes such systems and methods therefor, the entirety of each of which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIG. 1C is a block diagram of a host system 7 showing an exemplary system configuration for a host system 7. As shown therein, a communications layer 153 is operable to receive incoming GPS data and write data from the receivers 5 to the data storage system 208. The data storage system can be divided into any number of databases and logical layers for data analysis and storage. For example, a messaging layer 208 b can be configured to store GPS event data from GPS on-board units 1 in a GPS event database 211. A separated routing database 212 could be provided to store mapping and route data based on, inter alia, GPS data to store routes traveled by vehicles. Another database layer 208 a can include a business logic database 204 and a reporting database 210 to store rules for analysis of data and reports analyzed data respectively. A database layer 208 b can be operably connected to other databases, for example external databases 204. For example, an external database 204 can provide traffic data which shows congestion along routes to be traveled by a vehicle, which can be used in conjunction with GPS data 211 and business logic 204 to reroute vehicles or create reports as to congested routes. An applications layer 204, such as an application sever 204, can be used to run applications processing, which may include, for example, sending data to and/or receiving data from one or more other data sources such as client workstations 184, 190, as described above. For example the application layer 204 can be used to provide a graphic user interface 151 of a client workstation 184,194 a user-interactive interface.

In one embodiment, a system is configured to received, store, and process GPS data to provide to a graphic user interface of a client a user-interactive interface for tracking and reporting on vehicles and vehicle fleets. For each vehicle, GPS event data is stored for over an operation period. For example, the data can be stored and processed to show event data for at least one vehicle v for an operation period of a workday, a week, a month, a quarter, a year, the life of a service contract, or any desirable time period. The GPS event data can then be analyzed to derive a plurality of operational metrics for each vehicle. Exemplary operational metrics that can be derived from GPS data include: engine on/off, vehicle mileage, idling, number of stops, distance traveled, and speed (including high speed and average speed). For example, an on-board GPS device can be configured to be operational to transmit when a vehicle engine is on, thus engine on/off time can be derived. Idling (stopped while engine running) and speeding (distance/time), as well as vehicle mileage can also be derived from tracking via GPS. This data in turn can be used to derive a number of other operational metrics, including vehicle activity over a predetermined time period, vehicle operational reports, employee performance (e.g., working hours, deliveries per day), driver behavior (e.g.: speeding violations, idling over limits); and fleet performance (e.g., metrics based on data above derived for multiple vehicles). A graphic user interface can be configured to display including a representation of at least one operational metric for each of a plurality of vehicles.

Exemplary graphic representations or interfaces 300 for a graphic user interface for a user is shown in FIGS. 3A-3K. Such interfaces could be in the form of application software for computer and digital devices as described above, or in the form of webpage accessed by a client from at least one host server, or any combinations thereof as broadly disclosed herein and without limitation. As shown in FIG. 3A, a “Dashboard” 320 page gives a user a first interactive screen to view GPS data and operational metrics. The top of the graphic user interface 300 has, in one embodiment, tabs for “Reports” 320, “Live Fleet,” 332 “Route Replay,” 324 “Alerts,” 328 Fleet Service,” 330 and “Admn” 332, which lead to other user interactive displays. For example, a user could select “Live Fleet” 324 using an input such as a keyboard or a mouse, which would lead to a page with GPS data and mapping software which tracks vehicles v1, v2 . . . vn. The page can allow a user such as a dispatcher to, for example, locate and dispatch the closest vehicle to any job site and reroute the nearest vehicle.

The Dashboard 320, as with any other screen, can be configured to offer preset modules or objects for a user to interact with or view, or in the alternative it can be configured to allow a user to customize the information, reports, alerts, etc most important to the user.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the Dashboard 320 screen includes various graphic representations of operational metrics, including reports and alerts, to aid a user in, among other things, vehicle, employee, and fleet management. For example, the operational metrics 302 for individual vehicles include operational metrics such as a engine on/off 302 a, vehicle mileage 302 b, idling, 302 c, and speeding 302 d. Other operational metrics could also be shown such as average speed 302 e and number of stops 302 f (See FIG. 3C, 3D). Such operational metrics are also shown for various fleet configurations as described below.

The Dashboard 320 shows at the top of the interface 300 a graphic information display for an individual vehicle 301, which can be selected from a drop down menu 301 a. Other methods of selection can be used, for example, by selecting with a mouse, a graphic for the vehicle v4 (shown as “Van 1006”) in a fleet report graphic 335. The graphic information display for the vehicle 301 includes a reporting and alerts for the vehicle v4, for example, operational metrics such as at least one engine on/off graphic 302 a, vehicle mileage graphic 302 b, idling graphic 302 c, and a speeding graphic 302 d.

As shown, the graphics 302 a, 302 b, 302 c, 302 d on the individual vehicle 301 is shown reporting graphic that shows a rating 303 under each operational metric comparing the vehicle performance against other vehicles in the fleet for a 24 hour period. For instance, an engine on/off rating graphic 303 a puts the vehicle v4 in 4^(th) place in the fleet, a vehicle mileage rating graphic 303 b puts the vehicle v4 in 6^(th) place, idling rating graphic at 303 c at 19^(th) place, and a speeding rating graphic 303 d puts the vehicle v4 at 7^(th) place. These markings for v4 are also seen in the fleet management graph 335 a, 335 b, 335 c as described below.

The interface 300 also provides, for the graphic user interface, an alert when an operational metric for a vehicle exceeds a predetermined threshold established for the operational metric. For example, report graphic on the individual vehicle 301 shows the name of the driver, that the vehicle has shutdown (e.g.: for the end of the workday), the time for shutdown, and for each of the operational metrics, a pie chart graphic 305 a, 305 b, 305 c, 305 d, and a split-window graphic 306 a/308 a, 306 b/308 b, 306 c/308 c, 306 d 8/308 d 8/309 d for the individual's engine on/off, vehicle mileage, idling, and speeding graphics respectively, each of which are designed to alert and report to a user when a vehicle has exceeded a predetermined criterion such as a predetermined threshold. Each of the pie chart 330 and split window graphics 306/308 show the time the vehicle spent within threshold 306, as well as a representation that alerts when the vehicle exceeded the threshold. For example, each metric has in the split window graphic 306/308 a predetermined criterion or threshold 306 established for the 24 hour period: 8 hours for engine on/off 306 a, 150 miles for vehicle mileage 306 b 8/308 b, 1.0 hours for idling 306 c/308 c, and three speeding thresholds of over 70 mph, 80 mph, and 90 mph under speeding 306 d 8/308 d 8/309 d.

For example, the “Engine On/Off” split window 306 a/308 a has in a left-hand window, for vehicle operation within the predetermined threshold 306 a, a graphic which includes a color (green) and text describing the vehicle's v4 operation statistic under the threshold, 7 hours, 50 m. The right-hand window 308 a, shows a window with the time remaining in the 24 hour period (16 hours, 10 min.) Because this is time where the engine was not running, and thus within the threshold, the window 308 a is configured to show neutral color or identifier (e.g. white, tan, clear). The pie chart 305 a shows a visual with green and neutral coloring corresponding to the times in the split window 306 a,308 a which allows a user to readily visualize the percentages for the Engine On/Off time.

The “Vehicle Mileage” split window 306 b/308 b shows the predetermined threshold of 150 miles in the left-hand window 306 b, which is in green as with Engine On/Off. However, the right-hand window 308 b shows the driver has exceeded the threshold by another 38 miles. As this is in excess of the threshold, where the window 308 b is configured to alert the user with a red color. The pie chart 305 b shows a visual with green and red coloring corresponding the times in the split window 306 b,308 b which allows a user to readily visualize the percentages for the vehicle mileage, as well as alert the user that the vehicle is excess of the threshold.

The Idling and Speeding graphics are similarly configured, thereby proving a user friendly view for all the metrics for the individual vehicle and driver. For example, Idling 302 c includes an alerting threshold where of 1 hour, and alerts for excess of an hour of idling. Speeding 302 d includes reporting and alerting for, among other things, speeds in excess of 70 mph 306 d, 80 mph 308 d, and 90 mph 309 d, with different colors for each (e.g. green, yellow, and red).

It will be understood that other graphical displays could be used, such as bar graphs, gauge icons, whimsical graphics (e.g., a speedometer or a stopwatch), or any other such graphic as is useful.

For each vehicle v1, v2, v3 . . . vn, historical GPS event data can be stored, as for example, for a plurality of operation periods. Accordingly, while the graphics 302 a, 302 b, 302 c, 302 d on the individual vehicle 301 are over an operational 24 hour period, the graphics could be configured to show data for longer periods and/or a plurality of operational periods, such as a week, a month, a quarter, a year, or other periods as desired. Other thresholds could be implemented for each of these periods, as for example, by adding the criteria or thresholds for each operational period, e.g., for Vehicle Mileage 302 b, or an 160 hour threshold for a 4 work-week period (a five day week), where each 24 hour period is 8 hours. Other reports can be generated based on the historical event data.

For example, report information can include one or more reports on: vehicle activity over a predetermined time period, speed (including high speed and average speed), number of stops, idling, vehicle operational reports, maintenance, employee performance, driver behavior; and fleet performance.

An exemplary, selectable “Top 10” fleet report 335 shows reports 335 a, 335 b, 335 c, 3355 d for the top ten vehicles in each of 4 operational metrics for a fleet of vehicles: Engine On/Off 335 a, Distance Traveled 335 b, Idling Report 335 c, and High Speed Report 335 d. Operational metrics for one of the vehicles v4, “Van 1006” is shown at the top of the graphic user interface 301, and the vehicle rankings as shown for v4 are shown in three of the metrics 335 a, 335 b, and 335 d where the vehicle is in the top 10, as described above. While the report shows the “Top 10,” a selectable drop down menu 308 b allows a user to select any number of options for reporting (e.g., top 20, 50) and another drop down menu 310 allows a user to select time periods (e.g. 24 hours, 5 days, a month), to obtain ranked vehicle performance for the fleet and vehicles therein.

The “Engine On/Off Report” 335 ranks the vehicles v1 . . . v10 from highest to lowest for “Engine On” time over the 24 hours. For example, a row for the top vehicle v1 shows the engine was on for 9 hours and 58 minutes and off for 15 hours and 2 minutes. The lowest ranked v10 (Vehicle 0435) shows engine operation for 6 hours and 8 minutes, whereas the off time is 17 hours and 52 minutes. A fillable bar graph shows on and off times, with “on” being green and off being blank or neutral, with the fill line visually showing the percentage of the 24 hour period. Text graphics write out the time. The rows of bar graphs for each vehicle are aligned in a columnar format so as to readily compare each vehicle's statistics with one another.

The “Distance Traveled” 335 b reports and alerts are consistent with criteria for the “Vehicle Mileage” 302 b for the individual driver described above, and ranks vehicles within the top 10 of the fleet from highest to lowest for distance traveled. A fillable bar graph shows the predetermined threshold of 150 miles in the left-hand bar graph, which is in green. However, the left-hand of the bar graph shows, with fill lines by percentage, where the driver has exceeded the 150 miles threshold. The top ranked vehicle of the fleet is in excess of the threshold by 236 miles, whereas the 10^(th) ranked vehicle (Van 1026) is only a few miles over. A fillable bar graph shows distances times, with the 150 mile threshold being green any excess mileage being red so as to alert the user, with the fill line visually showing the percentage of the 300 mile distance. Text graphics write out mileage at or under 150 miles on the left-hand side, and mileage in excess right hand side. Again, rows of the bar graphs for each vehicle are aligned columnar format so as to readily compare each vehicle's statistics with one another. The “Idling” 305 c and “High Speed” 306 d reports graphics are similarly configured, thereby proving a user friendly view for all the metrics for the ranked vehicles and drivers in the fleet. For example, “Idling” 335 c includes an alerting threshold of 1 hour, and reports, bar graphs, alerts for excess of an hour of idling. As shown in FIG. 3C, such a Idling report can also be configured in a format for delivery to a PDA or smartphone, which shows bar graphs, rankings, and idling times for a plurality of drivers/vehicles over a 24 hour period. Returning to FIG. 3B, as with the individual report 302 above, speeding 335 d includes bar graphs, reporting and alerting for, among other things, speed in excess of 70 mph, 80 mph, and 90 mph, with different colors for each (e.g. green, yellow, and red).

More detailed reports can be created and configured. FIG. 3B shows one example of a detailed report for an employee and vehicle, as could be accessed, for example, in a page for reports (see FIG. 3A 322). The report is an “Hours Worked Report” 350 for a vehicle (Truck 18) over a five day workweek, as shown in the lower table 340 portion of the graphic user interface 340. Each day of the work week is given a row 340 a, 340 b, 340 c, 340 d, 340 e on the report, and the table 340 which includes columns for day, start time, driver, finish time, and an “Hours Worked” bar graph 344 a, 344 b, 344 c, 344 d, 344 e which shows a colored fill bar and text showing the hours worked. The report has alerting icons E1, E2, E3, E4, which show exceptions where a vehicle and driver have exceeded predetermined thresholds or criteria. The exception alerts are described in an upper window 342, which can be scrolled using a scrolling graphic 343 using a mouse, via touch screen, or other input. The upper window 342 reports and alerts the user as to the exceptions, which reports two alerts 306 b, 306 c that on 2 days a driver finished at 1:22 pm and 1:30 p.m., which is before predetermined time (before 4:00 p.m.). Another alert 306 a shows that on one day the driver worked two hours longer than a predetermined time period (12 hours), as the driver worked 14 hours and 33 minutes. By scrolling down the upper window module 342, the user can see the fourth alert for the exception E4, where the driver exceeded the predetermined threshold of 12 hours by 27 minutes. The fill bars on the bar graphs 340 a, 340 b, 340 c, 340 d in the lower table 340 can also be colored to reflect an alert, such as where on days where a driver has exceeded the predetermined threshold for hours worked E1, E4. For example, the fill bar 344 b, 344 e can be colored red when the predetermined threshold is exceeded, whereas when under the threshold, the bar 344 a, 344 c, 344 d is colored green. A week summary portion 346 of the graphic user interface 350 can give over all statistics for the week, such as start and finish dates and times, total hours and days, and average hours per day.

FIGS. 3D-3E shows another example of a detailed report for an employee and vehicle, shown as a “Scorecard” for a driver. As shown in FIG. 3D, a left hand graphic 307 includes fillable bars like those in FIG. 3A that show, for a driver, a score card for operational metrics Average Speed 302 e, Distance Traveled 302 g, Engine On/Off 302 a, Vehicle Idling 302 c, High Speed 302 d, Number of Stops 302 f, and Average Speed 302 e for the individual driver. A ranking for each metric as compared to other vehicles in the fleet is also given. The GPS data analysis is given for a time period of 5 days. On a right-hand graphic 311, a bar graph shows, for each day of the 5 days, an average speed, where the X-axis has each day, and the Y-axis shows miles per hour (0-60 mph). FIG. 3E shows a scorecard graphic configured for an application for a PDA such as a smart phone, similar to the left-hand graphic 307, showing a score card for operational metrics 302 a, 302 g, 302 c, 302 d, 302 f, 302 e for the individual driver, as well as a ranking for each metric as compared to other vehicles in the fleet, for a time period of 24 hours.

Still other reports based on GPS data and tracking could be provided, such as driving behavior including vehicle speed, engine start-up and shut-down and idling time, or any others including as described herein which can be used to enforce driving policy and curb unwanted behavior like excessive speeding, tardiness and extended vehicle idling.

Similarly, alerts based on GPS data and tracking could be generated such as alerting a user immediately if a vehicle is used during off-hours, which can indicate a vehicle theft. Other exemplary alerts include late deliveries, vehicle care or maintenance is needed, or area reporting and/or need for rerouting. For example, alerts can be triggered for excessive speeding, excessive idling, engine start-up or shut-down during off-hours unauthorized vehicle usage and when a vehicle enters or exits specific geographic areas. Alerts can also be configured to alert when vehicles are due for scheduled maintenance (e.g., based on a specific length of time, miles driven, or engine-on time). Alerts can also be segregated from reporting on a separate page of a graphic user interface (e.g. accessible by a tab 328 as shown on the Dashboard 328 at FIG. 3A).

Alerts can be flagged in relevant reports as shown above, and users can also be notified of any alerts as soon as a violation occurs via email or mobile device. As shown in FIG. 3F, it will be noted that in some embodiments, a portable device such as a smart phone or PDA can be configured to receive alerts that need urgent attention, such as an off-hours use alert or an alert indicating rerouting is needed. For example, as shown, an application is configured to show a number of alerts 315 received over a course of time, including for example, alerts showing a speed criterion or threshold has been met or exceeded. By selecting one of the alert indicators, a separate details screen 317 is accessed which describes the alert. Reports or alerts can also be configured to show fleet alerts 390 for a fleet trending data 390, as described below.

As explained above, the computer system includes GPS event database. The GPS event data is analyzed to derive a plurality of operational metrics for each of a plurality of vehicles; and identify, from the analysis, at least one trend for a GPS event history using the GPS event data. The system can be configured to provide to a graphic user interface an interactive display configured display a representation (e.g., a graphic presentation of the trend). Reports and alerts based on GPS data and tracking and trending is provided, including for driving behavior including vehicle speed (including average speed and high speed), engine start-up and shut-down, idling time, number of stops or any others including as described herein which can be used to enforce driving policy and curb unwanted behavior like excessive speeding, tardiness and extended vehicle idling.

FIGS. 6A-6C shown a graphic flow for analyzing received GPS event data and GPS data stored over time to identify, report, and display trending. As shown in FIG. 6A, GPS event data for each vehicle, as described herein, is gathered over a period of time. The data is analyzed for over time (shown over 6 months) derive operational metrics 302, for example, mileage 302 b, speeding, 302 d and idling 302 a. Such data can be analyzed for each month to identify statistics for each operational metric, for example, for each vehicle or employee, as well as to derive statistic for the fleet (e.g. averages under each operational metric, or averages for defined groups under each metric). Such data can be collected and stored indefinitely.

As shown in FIG. 6B, the analyzed historical event data for each operational metric 302 shows trend data 362, for example, the performance of a vehicle/driver v over the 6 month period, for example, a mileage trend 362 b, a speeding trend, 362 d and an idling trend 362 a for each month. As shown in FIG. 6C, the trend data 362 for each operational metric can then be extrapolated from the GPS event data. This trend data is extrapolated for each vehicle in a fleet, as well as for each employee, and can be used in conjunction with other databases to provide trending and statistical data as described herein. Trend data includes not only the direction in which performance and behavior move under operational metrics, but also identifiable changes in those movements and comparisons therebetween, as well as statistical data drawn from GPS data and other databases, as described herein.

FIG. 3G shows one example of a detailed trend report 355 for a fleet and employees from trending analysis as described above. As shown, a “Trending” page could be accessed, for example, in a page from the “Dashboard.” The trending 355 is an “Average Speed” report 355 for the average speed 302 e for at least one fleet group 357 over a time period 364, for example 3 months, 6 months, a past year, a selectable year (e.g. 2010, 2011) or “all” (e.g. a full time period for which data was collected for a given user). It will be noted that the time period available to a given user depends on how much GPS event data stored for the fleet for that user. For example, a user whose fleet data is collected starting Jan. 1, 2011 would not have options for data before that time.

A drop down menu 359 is configured to allow a user to select any number of operational metrics 302 as described herein, for example: Average Speed 302 e, Distance Traveled 302 g, Engine On/Off 302 a, Vehicle Idling 302 c, High Speed 302 d, Number of Stops 302 f, or Average Speed 302 e. While a fleet group 357 is shown as “all fleet groups,” a fleet group can include any subset of vehicles, and can be configured to allow a user to set up custom groups a fleet. For example, a user may have fleets for different geographical locations (e.g. a Bronx Fleet, Brooklyn Fleet, Queens Fleet, a New Jersey Fleet, a Dublin Fleet etc.) then the groups can be so defined. GPS data can then be filtered and analysed for this group for vehicles within in the group selected in the manner described above. The system can also be configured to permit a user to view the type of statistical data within the operational metric For example another drop down menu 364 allows a user to select either “Averages” or “Totals.” The graphs represent can represent either totals across the fleet or subset selected, or non-zero averages across the fleet. A non-zero average discounts, for example vehicles who had no data for the period, e.g. for fleets who have added new vehicles or decommissioned vehicles periodically in their contract.

As shown in a graph 358 in a top portion of the user interface 355, a fleet report for all vehicle groups 364 breaks down the average speed for all vehicles in a fleet for that year 364 by each month (May 2010 356-5, June 2010 356-6 . . . April, 2011 356-4). As shown, the months are along and x-axis whereas the speeds (from 0-10 mph) are along a y-axis. Each of the bars 356-5, 356-6 . . . 356-4 along the y-axis show average speed for each month. Bars 356 can be colored to convey information, for example, bar showing the month with the highest average speed 356-9 of about 9 mph, is a different color (e.g. blue) than the bars for the other months (e.g. green).

At the bottom of the trend report 355, a fleet report 335 e similar to the fleet reports 335 a, 335 b, 335 c, 3355 d in FIG. 3A shows ranked speeds for the vehicles in the group 357 in the month with the highest average speed 356-9 in the graph 358 in a top portion of the user interface 35. Each vehicle v1, v2 . . . vn is ranked from highest to lowest for that month, with bar graphs for miles per hour for each vehicle shown along the x-axis and rank from highest to lowest in along the y-axis. The display could be configured to allow a user to select any month for a breakdown.

The trend data can include operational performance against at least one criterion, the at least one criterion including a criterion selected from at least one of: a user-configurable criterion; a criterion derived from GPS event data; a criterion derived from data other than GPS event data; a criterion derived from traffic data; and a criterion derived from industry data. FIG. 3F shows at 390 another example of trend report and alert based on a trend analysis. As shown, a “Stories” 390 report shows that in a fleet of vehicles, 202 vehicles had more than 20 high speed events in a given month. As shown, the alert 390 shows, based on a criterion derived from the UPS event data, which shows that the Trending for the operational metric is high 391. While such a criterion can be derived from GPS event data from the fleet from that user, it can also be derived from non-GPS event data such as industry standard data derived from, for example GPS data of other users or external databases that hold data related to operational statistics.

FIGS. 3H and 3I show other examples of a detailed trend report 360 for a fleet and employees from trending analysis as described above. The display shows a “head to head” analysis of two drivers v1, v2, each of which can be selected by drop down menus 360 a, 360 b, which can also be configured to be searchable. The head to head analysis can be selected using a drop down and/or searchable menu 361 for over any over a time period, for example 3 months, 6 months, a past year, a selectable year (e.g. 2009, 2010, 2011) or “all” (e.g. a full time period for which data was collected for a given user). Again, it will be noted that the time period available to a given user depends on how much GPS event data stored for each driver and/or vehicle. For example, a user whose fleet data is collected starting Jan. 1, 2011 would not have options for data before that time. Similarly, data would not be available for a given vehicle or driver for any time period where data was not collected from a GPS device associated with that user or driver. Once the vehicles v1, v2 and the time period are selected, a user can, via an input 367, run the comparison.

A top section 362 of the page shows a “versus” trend comparison, which presents graphics comparing each vehicles' v1 v2 performance under operational metrics 302 as described herein, for example: Engine On/Off 302 a, Vehicle Mileage 302 b, Vehicle Idling 302 c and Average Speed 302 e. As shown in FIG. 3H, each operational metric 302 includes a bar graphic 365, where the left-side 365 v 1 of the bar corresponds to one driver v1 and the right side 366 v 2 of the bar corresponds to another vehicle v2. A visual indicia for the bar, for example a color, is given for each driver v1, v2, which allows a user to readily compare performance trends and statistics under each operational metric 302 for each driver v1, v2 for the time period selected (e.g., 2009). A text graphic 366 v 1 may also give statistical trend data. For example, as shown in FIG. 3H, driver v1 has under “Engine-On Time” 302 a, a green color on the left-side 365 v 1 of the bar that is not as long as vehicle 2's v2 red color on the right-hand side of the bar 365 v 2. Text graphics 366 v 1, 366 v 2 at the left and right hand extremes of the bar show respectively that driver 1's v1 engine-on time is 5,234 minutes 366 v 1, whereas driver 2's v2 engine on time is 7,556 minutes 366 v 2. In the example shown in FIG. 3I, driver v1 has under “Engine-Time” 302 a, a green color on the left-side 365 v 1 of the bar that is again not as long as vehicle 2's v2 red color on the right-hand side of the bar 365 v 2. In FIG. 3I, text graphics 366 v 1, 366 v 2 at the left and right hand extremes of the bar show respectively that driver 1's v1 engine on time for all years is 280,312 minutes 366 v 1, whereas driver 2's v2 engine on time for all years is 298,498 minutes 366 v 2. The statistics are given in the same layout for Vehicle Mileage 302 b, Vehicle Idling 302 c and Average Speed 302 e, thus allowing a user to readily see and compare how each driver v1,v2 performed for the time period selected (e.g. the year of 2009, “all years”).

A bottom section 363 of the page shows an XY graph which plots the statistics for each driver in increments for the “versus” trend comparison. Page tabs 368 for the graph report 363 allows the user to see XY graphs 363 for each of the operational metrics Engine On/Off 302 a, Mileage 302 b, Vehicle Idling 302 c and Average Speed 302 e. As shown in FIG. 3H, Mileage 302 b for a year is presented, whereas in FIG. 3I, Engine-On Time 302 b for “all years” is presented. In FIG. 3H, along the X-axis are increments of months, and along the Y-axis is vehicle mirage in 1000 mile increments. In FIG. 3I, along the X-axis are increments of years for “all years”, and along the Y-axis is Engine-On time in minutes per month. Each driver v1, v2, has a bar graph 364 v 1, 364 v 2 plotted along the XY axis showing their individual performance over time. A visual indicia for the bar, for example a color, is given for each driver v1, v2, which allows a user to readily compare performance trends and statistics for the operational metric 302 for each driver v1, v2 for the time period selected, and can be configured to correspond to the colors assigned to each driver in the top portion 362 of the report.

Also, one or more trend bar graphs can be added to show a comparison for at least one criterion, for example a criterion selected from: a user-configurable criterion; a criterion derived from GPS event data; a criterion derived from data other than GPS event data; a criterion derived from traffic data; a criterion derived from traffic data; and a criterion derived from industry data. For example as shown in FIGS. 3H and 3I, a fleet average bar 364avg shows a fleet average performance for the operational metric 302 selected (e.g., Vehicle Mileage in FIG. 3H, Engine-On Time in FIG. 3I). Accordingly, a user can readily see a comparison of the selected drivers v1, v2 against one another, but also as against the selected criterion or criteria. In another embodiment (not shown), the criterion can be drawn from industry data as described herein, and the representation of the trend can be, for example, graphic presentations such as a bar graph shown showing performance against an industry benchmark derived from the industry data (e.g. industry averages for operational metrics, best-of-class industry averages, goals met/unmet vs. industry standards). For example, a graph could show an average of the top percent of industry performers for which there is industry data. The screen could also shown goal benchmarks set by a user, as could be developed from industry data, and whether the vehicles or fleet are meeting those goals.

As shown in FIG. 3J and FIG. 3K, any number of vehicles or drivers v1, v2 . . . vn can be added to the graphics to permit comparisons as described above. For example, FIG. 3J shows a multi-vehicle graphic 365 where a user is presented with an XY axis 363 for the operational metric Mileage 302 b for the year 2009, similar to those described above with respect to FIGS. 3H-3I, which includes an input area 360 a for adding as many vehicles v1, v2, v3 . . . vn as a user desires.

As shown in FIG. 3J, 3 vehicles/drivers v1, v2, v3 are compared for the year 2009. In another embodiment, the system can be configured to analyse GPS data other criteria data (e.g., industry data) to allow for intelligent reporting. For example, as shown in FIG. 3J, a text graphic 369 also shows the totals for all vehicles selected, as well as a “Peak Period” which the month with the peak driving mileage (August 2009), as well as the monthly mile total for the vehicle/driver with the highest mileage that month (v1 with 8711.62 miles in August 2009). Thus the system thus shows trend data along with, for the drivers selected, the driver who was the largest cause. The system can be further configured to analyze the GPS event history for at least one driver's performance for at least one operational metric, identify a change in performance in at least one operational metric over a time period; provide, for the graphic user interface, the representation of the trend, the trend including a trend showing the change in performance for the operational metric.

FIG. 3K shows a multi-vehicle “Top 5 Comparison” graphic 370 where a user is presented with an XY axis 363 similar to those of FIG. 3H to 3J for the operational metric “Idling” 302 c for the year 2009. The graph plots the minutes spent idling for the “top 5” vehicles v1, v2, v3, v4, v5 for the year 2009. As will be understood, the “top 5” may show either the least amount of minutes spent idling, which is a positive performing statistic, or the “top 5” could be configured to show those in the fleet with the highest minutes spent idling, which would be a negative performing statistic. A text graphic 369 also again shows the totals for the top 5 vehicles, as well as a “Peak Period” which the month with the peak idling time (September 2009), as well as the idling minute total for the vehicle/driver with the highest idling minutes that month (v4 with 11,349 mins. in September 2009). Thus the system thus shows trend data along with, for the top 5 drivers, the driver who was the largest cause.

In another embodiment, system can be configured to proactively generate reports or alerts based on, inter alia, analyses of GPS event data and non-GPS event data as described herein. The system can be configured to analyze the GPS event history for at least one driver's performance for at least one operational metric, identify a change in performance in at least one operational metric over a time period; provide, for the graphic user interface, the representation of the trend, the trend including a trend showing the change in performance for the operational metric. For example, in a current time period where GPS vehicle data is showing that an operational metric is trending above or below from a prior time period, the system can be configured to report and/or alert the user. For instance, in a current month where idling is up X % over the prior month, the system can be configured to deliver an alert showing the total idling for the present month and the vehicle(s)/driver(s) with the highest idling minutes that month, thereby pinpointing a cause. Similar alerts could be configured for any operational metric, (average speed, mileage, speeding, etc.) and for any time period (day, week, month, quarter, year, etc.) Comparisons could be run on other bases as well, for example, a delta for an operational metric from another time period (e.g., idling is up or down X % from the same month of the previous year, or the same week of the previous month, etc.) Such analyses can be performed for a single driver up to an entire fleet.

Criteria developed from GPS event data and non-GPS event data such as industry data or historical GPS event data can be used to develop criteria to configure such benchmarks. For example, where historical GPS data and/or industrial data show peak periods for certain operational metrics, a higher percentage threshold could be established before sending an alert than in a non-peak period. The system could also be adapted to incorporate goal benchmarks, and to alert a user when a driver is or is not meeting or exceeding benchmarks.

In another embodiment, the system can be configured to develop criteria using industry data from industry databases and/or historical GPS event data. For example, industrial and/or historical GPS data may show driver or fleet performance metrics and trends for given operational metrics. The system can be configured to facilitate a user in understanding and developing internal goals as against benchmarks developed from industrial and/or historical GPS data. For instance, the system could be configured to alert the user that it should set up an idling report for a given driver/vehicle, or that a mileage report should be set up for the fleet, based on the trending data from past performance.

In another example, the system could be configured to allow the user to set monthly fleet goals for a plurality of operational metrics. In setting each goal, the system could send a facilitating message, alerting the user as to how the goal compared against a criterion such as an industry benchmark from industrial data and/or a benchmark based on historical GPS event data. For example, a user enters a goal for the fleet in a goal entry field (not shown) of keeping average minutes per vehicle for idling in a peak month to 5000 miles. The system can be configured to access historical GPS data and industry data to compare that goal against industry benchmarks and send a facilitating message, such as: “Only X % of fleets keep average idling per vehicle under 5000 miles.” Analysis of fleets and vehicles for that use can be filtered by any number of factors to target the goal-setting benchmarks, for example, by geographical region or other relevant filtering data. (e.g. state, city, zip code, service area, comparable cities), fleet size, types of vehicles (truck, car, vehicle class), operational period (year, month), type of business (food delivery, furnishings delivery, package delivery), and so on. The system can further be configured to allow such goal settings for fleet subsets or selected drivers.

As will be understood, as more GPS data events are accumulated, accuracy and options for reporting can become more robust as well.

As explained above, any of the presentations above could be configured such that criteria trend graphics can be added to show a comparison for at least one criterion as described herein (e.g.: a user-configurable criterion; a criterion derived from GPS event data; a criterion derived from data other than GPS event data; a criterion derived from traffic data; a criterion derived from traffic data; and a criterion derived from industry data).

In one embodiment, the computer system is configured to identify a trend for at least one operational metric for a first period; provide a criterion for the operational metric; identify a trend for the at least one operational metric for a second period; compare the trend for the first period against the second period to identify a change of performance for the trend; and determine if the change of performance for the trend meets the criterion. For instance, a user could identify a trend of high idling (e.g. up 7%) for a given month, and set a criterion for idling. For example, the user may input a benchmark of reducing idling by 5%. The system could then analyze GPS data to identify the idling trend for the following month, and determine if the fleet idling is or is not meeting the 5% reduction. As will be understood, the data can be provided over any selected time period(s), per driver/vehicle, a select set of drivers, fleetwide, and for any operational metric, and so on.

FIG. 4 shows a flow chart for a method of presenting GPS event data for a graphic user interface, including in accord with embodiments as described herein. As shown in block 402, the system receives GPS event data transmitted from a plurality of GPS devices, each GPS device associated a vehicle. At block 404, the system stores, for each vehicle, in a memory operatively coupled to at least one of the processors the GPS event data over an operation period. At block 406, the GPS event data is analyzed to derive a plurality of operational metrics for each vehicle. At block 410, the system provides, for a graphic user interface, an interactive display configured display a representation of at least one operational metric for each of a plurality of vehicles.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the system is configured to correct GPS event data to provide accurate tracking data for a vehicle. The system corrects, using at least one correction algorithm, GPS event data from a vehicle. At least one correction algorithm, when executed comprises identifying at least one GPS location event for a vehicle 407, and then as shown at step 408 determines if the event is accurate for the vehicle. In one example, up to date mapping may place the vehicle in an impossible or inaccessible location, such as on the top of a building or in the middle of a body of water with no nearby bridge or road. In such a case, the event is determined to be inaccurate, and the event data is corrected, for example, by excluding it from the tracking and reporting data, or by recalculating a trajectory from a prior position. In another example, a plurality GPS location events for a vehicle can be identified, where, upon comparing at least one of the plurality GPS location events with a different one of the plurality GPS location events, it can be determined that at least one of the location events is inaccurate for the vehicle. For example, a GPS signal may indicate to the system that a vehicle distance from a prior position is too far (e.g., a 5 mile radius) from its prior position as reported 60 seconds prior and when accounting for the maximum possible speed for the vehicle, or some other criterion. Or, in another example, a series of GPS signals may shown for events that the next signal, if in the next 60 seconds, must be in a range (e.g., a 0-3.5 mile radius from the prior point), and if the signal is not in that range, the GPS event is false. In such a case, the event data is corrected, for example, by excluding it from the tracking and reporting data, or using some other correction recalculation.

Systems and modules described herein may comprise software, firmware, hardware, or any combination(s) of software, firmware, or hardware suitable for the purposes described herein. Software and other modules may reside on servers, workstations, personal computers, computerized tablets, PDAs, and other devices suitable for the purposes described herein. Software and other modules may be accessible via local memory, via a network, via a browser or other application in an ASP context, or via other means suitable for the purposes described herein. Data structures described herein may comprise computer files, variables, programming arrays, programming structures, or any electronic information storage schemes or methods, or any combinations thereof, suitable for the purposes described herein. User interface elements described herein may comprise elements from graphical user interfaces, command line interfaces, and other interfaces suitable for the purposes described herein. Except to the extent necessary or inherent in the processes themselves, no particular order to steps or stages of methods or processes described in this disclosure, including the Figures, is implied. In many cases the order of process steps may be varied, and various illustrative steps may be combined, altered, or omitted, without changing the purpose, effect or import of the methods described.

The system can also be configured to provide mapping and tracking functions, as described above. The system can be configured to interface with mapping systems, for example, such as Google Maps (http://maps.google.com/maps), www.mapquest.com, www.mapsonus.com, www.maps.expedia.com, www.maps.yahoo.com (accessed through www.yahoo.com), www.maps.com, www.maps.excite.com, (accessed through www.excite.com), and www.mapblast.com. Also see U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,974,170, 5,682,525 and 6,148,260, the entirety of each of which is incorporated by reference herein. The system can also be integrated with systems to able to get real-time traffic information via the mapping in order to help drivers avoid traffic congestion.

In one embodiment, the system is configured to receive GPS event data for at least one vehicle; derive speed and location data from the GPS event data; analyze the GPS event history database for the vehicle's historical GPS event data; compare the GPS event data and the event history against traffic data from a traffic database; identify a traffic condition for the location; and remodel at least one solution to optimize performance based on the traffic condition and the GPS event data. Remodeling the solution can include at least one of a time shift and rerouting the vehicle. For example, the system can receive GPS event data from a vehicle/driver, which sends location and speed information for that vehicle. For example, GPS event data signals that a vehicle V is moving slowly or stopped on Route 20 in Anytown, USA at 9:15 am. The system then accesses traffic data for Anytown, USA and GPS historical data for vehicle V against which to compare the GPS event data. Traffic data can show, for example the times at which the Route 20 is congested (7:30 am-9:30 am on weekdays), and the GPS historical data can show the times at which that driver starts and ends its daily operations (e.g., 7:30 am on Tuesdays). The system can then remodel a solution which allows the vehicle to avoid the traffic condition. For example, the system may indicate that if the vehicle V starts its weekday run at least 30 minutes later, it will avoid the congestion on Route 20. Or the system may reroute the vehicle along route that data analysis shows is less congested. The system can also be configured to combine such solutions (e.g., configure a route with a number of route changes and that starts 20 minutes later to avoid a number of congested areas, including Route 20). The system could be further configured to provide such road profiling and route profiling in the form of alerts and reports as described herein. For example, the system could, upon receiving GPS event data signaling that a vehicle V is moving slowly or stopped on Route 20 in Anytown, USA at 9:15 am, send an alert based on the analysis such as: “Vehicle 1 should start its Tuesday shift 30 minutes later (8:00 am).”

In another example, the system is configured to analyze GPS event data and data from external databases to provide reports or alerts for driver behavior or vehicle behavior. For instance, a database can show the types of fuel a driver purchases (e.g. from a credit card) and where and when a driver refuels. For example, the GPS data and fueling data may show that a driver of a vehicle V, “Steve,” fills up with 20 Gallons on Tuesdays and Thursdays at “Ritz Gas” on Park Avenue, Anytown, USA. External databases on gas prices show that this station is particularly high priced, and moreso still on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The system could be configured to send an alert or give a report indicating that Steve is paying more for gas than needed. The system could also be adapted to model a solution to avoid the higher priced gas. For example, the system may indicate that if Steve refuels on Monday and Wednesdays at Acme Gas, on Poverty Lane, Anywhere USA, Steve will pay less for gas.

The system can also be configured to send an alert if the GPS event data and data from external databases indicates an inconstancy. For example, where Steve fills up with 20 Gallons on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the GPS data combined with data about the vehicle type and fuel data may show that Steve's gas consumption is greater than the vehicle's capacity, indicating that Steve purchasing more gas (i.e. for another car) than he is using.

In another embodiment, the system can be configured to store a record of a route from an origin location to a destination location and record the route for provision to a computer configured to display the route as a map. A mapping integration including functionality to replay traveled routes such as a “Route Replay” function (see FIG. 3A, 326) is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/083,222 entitled “System and Method for Providing an Electronic Representation of a Route,” the entirety of which is incorporated by reference hereby.

FIG. 1D shows one embodiment of a computers system 100 is configured to provide an electronic representation of a route. The system is programmed to store in a memory operatively coupled to at least processor, a record of a route from an origin location to a destination location. A client computer 184, 194 may be configured, for example, to have software programmed to store a record of a route locally, or the client may access a server 204 of a service provider that stores and maintains records of such routes in a DBMS 208.

The system 100 is configured to provide a user with a plurality of ground level area representations of locations corresponding locations along the recorded route including an origin location and a destination location. A description of exemplary embodiments of systems and methods for generating and providing ground level area representations can be found at in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/391,516, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.

In one embodiment, a map database 270 of server 204 stores map-related information 272, 274, 276 at least a portion of which may be transmitted to a client device 184,194. As shown in FIG. 1D, for example, map database 270 may store map tiles 272, where each tile is a map image of a particular geographic area. Depending on the resolution (e.g., whether the map is zoomed in or out), one tile may cover an entire region such as a state in relatively little detail. Another tile may cover just a few streets in high detail. The map information is not limited to any particular format. For example, the images may comprise street maps, satellite images, or a combination of these, and may be stored as vectors (particularly with respect to street maps) or bitmaps (particularly with respect to satellite images). The various map tiles are each associated with geographical locations, such that the server 204 is capable of selecting, retrieving and transmitting one or more tiles in response to receipt of a geographical location.

As noted below, the locations may be expressed in various ways including but not limited to latitude/longitude positions, street addresses, points on a map (such as when a user clicks on a map), building names, other data capable of identifying one or more geographic locations, and ranges of the foregoing.

The map database may also store ground level images 274 such as “street level” images. Ground level images 274 comprise images of objects at geographic locations, captured by cameras at geographic locations, in a direction generally parallel to the ground. Thus, as shown in FIG. 7, ground level image data may represent various geographic objects such as buildings 722, sidewalks 730 and street or road 740 from a perspective of a few feet above the ground and looking down the street or road. It will be understood that while ground level image 720 only shows a few objects for ease of explanation, a typical street level image will contain as many objects associable with geographic locations (street lights, mountains, trees, bodies of water, vehicles, people, etc.) in as much detail as the camera was able to capture.

The ground level image 720 may be captured by a camera mounted on top of a vehicle, from a camera angle pointing roughly parallel to the ground and from a camera position at or below the legal limit for vehicle heights (e.g., 7-14 feet). Ground level images are not limited to any particular height above the ground, for example, a street level image may be taken from the top of building. Panoramic street-level images up to 360 degrees may be created by stitching together a plurality of photographs taken from different camera angles.

The system 140 is configured cause the display device 155 to display thereon a plurality of sequential displays of the ground level area representations 720 for locations along a route, as shown in FIGS. 7-8. In one embodiment the route includes a first display comprising an origin location area representation; a plurality of sequential displays comprising sequential location area representations along the route; and a last display of a destination location area representation. The system 140 can be configured to receive at least one ground level image representation for each location along the route, or for selected locations along the route.

In one embodiment, the system is programmed work in conjunction with a system configured to provide a record of a route recorded by a GPS (Global Positioning System) device, for example, using an on-board unit which uses technology such as GPS to monitor a vehicle's positions and transmit wireless uploads to a central host system, as described herein.

One or more systems 100 can be further programmed record the route. The recorded route can then be provided to a computer system 100 configured to display the route as a map on a display device 151 of a client device 184, as described above. The computer system 100 can then be configured cause the display to display thereon the plurality of sequential displays of the ground level area representations along the recorded route so as to replicate a first person view of the route. The system 140 is configured to provide to the graphic user interface 151 a user-interactive interface to control and replay the ground level sequential displays as shown in FIGS. 7-8.

For example in one embodiment, an on-board GPS unit uploads one or more point-to-point routes it as traveled to a central host system. These traveled routes can be presented to a user on a display device 151, for example, as a layout shown in FIG. 7. At 700, the routes taken for at least one vehicle can be displayed in an interactive graphic. As shown in 700, one screen has a scrollable interface for viewing statistics and routes taken for a vehicle for a number of days 702 a, 702 b, 702 c . . . 702 n. As an alternative, routes taken for each of a fleet of vehicles on a given day could be presented. Each day or vehicle can have, for example, statistics for one or more routes R1, R2, R3, R4 . . . Rn recorded for that vehicle by an on board GPS device, as well as a total RT. The origin and destination for route can be determined in any number of ways, as for example between deliveries for a delivery service (e.g., the origin being the start of day, the destination being the first delivery point, which thereafter is the origin point for the next delivery destination, and so on until the end of a work period for vehicle operation, for example, an workday). In another example, an origin point can be the point where the vehicle's work period starts and the destination where it ends (e.g. end of vehicle operation for a given workday). The definition of a route for a vehicle can thus be defined in terms of the needs of a given business or other measurement model. Locations and time stamps can also be provided for points along the route (e.g., every 60 seconds) in a graphic 703.

For each route, a number of points representing locations along the route can be recorded from the GPS and stored at the DBMS 208 of a central host system. A displayable map can be offered as described above and as shown in 710. As shown at 710, the four routes are overlaid each with a distinguishing graphic on a displayable electronic map 710. In one embodiment, a user can select a recorded GPS route R1 for Vehicle 1 using an input device 149 such as a mouse, which would then highlight or display the route R1 on the map 710. For the selected Route R1, the user is presented with a “Route Replay” 720 to give the client a first person perspective of the route.

The system 140 is configured to provide to the graphic user interface 151 a user-interactive interface to control and replay the ground level sequential displays for locations along the route R1. In one embodiment, an input control graphic 722 has user-selectable objects, selectable by a mouse or key inputs for example, has at least one fast forward object 724 at least one play/pause object 723,725 and at least one rewind objects 727. A user can select these objects to start, stop, and control the speed of a first person view of a sequence T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 of ground level images such as street view photographs along the route R1 recorded by the GPS, as shown in FIG. 8. An icon 712 could also be provided on the map 710 or in another area of the graphic which moves along with the sequence of images presented in the “Route Replay.” A graphic 703 can also show locations and time stamps can also be provided for points along the route (e.g., every 60 seconds).

FIG. 8 shows a time sequence T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 . . . Tn of ground level images 420 that are presented to a user on a display device 151. As shown in FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the sequence, T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 . . . Tn of ground level images is played for locations along the route in a manner like a slide show, giving the viewer a first person view of the exact route taken by the vehicle on a time-scale proportionate to the vehicle's movement. Thus in such an embodiment, the speed, starts and stops of the vehicle will be presented so as to reflect the recorded route as traveled vehicle.

In another embodiment, a preset play speed causes the display device 151 to display thereon the plurality of sequential displays in a time sequence different than that of the speed and movement of the vehicle recorded by the GPS. Thus, for example, the sequence of ground level images such as photographs of points along the route, may be presented slower than a “real time” record of the route to allow for a more viewer-friendly presentation of the sequence of images where, for instance, a real time presentation would present the images in sequence too quickly.

In another embodiment, transitioning from image to image may be smoothed or made more continuous, as described in incorporated reference U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/391,596. In such an embodiment a “real time” presentation of a “Route Replay” can be contemplated.

As explained above, panoramic street-level images up to 360 degrees may be created by stitching together a plurality of photographs taken from different camera angles. In another embodiment, system 140 can provide, for at least one of the plurality of locations along the route, a plurality of ground level area representations configured to display a 360 degree view of the location for the first person view.

Accordingly, while the invention has been described and illustrated in connection with preferred embodiments, many variations and modifications as will be evident to those skilled in this art may be made without departing from the scope of the invention, and the invention is thus not to be limited to the precise details of methodology or construction set forth above, as such variations and modification are intended to be included within the scope of the invention. Therefore, the scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description and illustrations of the embodiments contained herein. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A computer system including one or more computer processors, a computer readable storage medium including computer code, and at least one storage device in which is stored GPS data for a plurality of vehicles, the system comprising: a memory including a GPS event database including GPS event data transmitted from a plurality of GPS devices, each GPS device associated with a vehicle, and stored over a period of time; and the one or more processors programmed at least to: receive the GPS event data; store the GPS event data, for each vehicle, over a period of time of at least one month in the GPS event database operatively coupled to at least one of the one or more processors; analyze the GPS event data to derive a plurality of operational metrics for each of the plurality of vehicles; identify at least one trend for at least one operational metric extrapolated from the stored GPS event data; identify at least one industry benchmark derived from industry data; provide, for a graphic user interface, a representation including a comparison of the at least one trend from the GPS event data against the at least one industry benchmark, and wherein the one or more processors are further programmed at least to: identify a trend for a given operational metric for a first time period of the given operational metric, the given operational metric being derived from the GPS event data, provide for setting, based on the trend for the given operational metric for the first time period, a criterion for the given operational metric; identify a trend for the given operational metric for a second time period of the given operational metric, the second time period ending following the setting of the criterion, compare the trend for the given operational metric for the first time period against the trend for the given operational metric for the second time period to identify a change of performance for the trend for the given operational metric; and determine if the change of performance for the trend for the given operational metric meets the criterion.
 2. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the at least one operational metric is selected from the group consisting of: engine on/off, vehicle mileage, idling, speed, performance against a criterion, employee performance, driver behavior, and fleet performance.
 3. The computer system of claim 2, wherein at least one trend includes operational performance against at least one criterion, and wherein the at least one criterion is selected from at least one of: a user-configurable criterion; a criterion derived from GPS event data; a criterion derived from data other than GPS event data; a criterion derived from traffic data; a criterion derived from traffic data; a criterion derived from fueling data; and a criterion derived from industry data.
 4. The computer system of claim 3, wherein the one or more processors are further programmed at least to: analyze the GPS event data for at least one driver's performance for at least one operational metric; identify a change in performance in the at least one operational metric over a time period; provide, for the graphic user interface, a graphic representation of a trend showing the change in performance for the operational metric.
 5. The computer system of claim 2, wherein the one or more processors are further programmed at least to: analyze the GPS event data for a plurality drivers' performance for at least one operational metric; and provide, for the graphic user interface, the representation of a trend for each of the drivers' performance.
 6. The computer system of claim 5, wherein the one or more processors are further programmed at least to: compare the GPS event data for at least one vehicle against industry data; provide, for the graphic user interface, the representation of the trend of the driver's performance against a trend derived from the industry data.
 7. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are further programmed at least to: provide, for the graphic user interface, the representation of the trend in the form of an alert.
 8. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are further programmed at least to: derive speed and location data from the GPS event data; analyze the GPS event database for at least one vehicle's historical GPS event data; compare the historical GPS event data against traffic data from a traffic database; identify a traffic condition for the location; and remodel at least one solution to optimize performance based on the traffic condition.
 9. The computer system of claim 8, wherein the at least one solution including at least one of: a time shift; and rerouting the vehicle.
 10. The computer system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are further programmed at least to: provide, for the graphic user interface, an alert when an operational metric for a vehicle meets or exceeds at least one predetermined criterion established for the operational metric.
 11. A method implemented by at least one computer comprising at least one processor and a non-transitory computer readable storage medium including computer code, which when executed by the at least one processor causes the at least one computer to perform the method comprising: receiving GPS event data transmitted from a plurality of GPS devices, each GPS device associated with a vehicle; storing the GPS event data, for each vehicle, over a period of time of at least one month in a GPS event database operatively coupled to one of the at least one processor; analyzing the GPS event data to derive a plurality of operational metrics for each of the plurality of vehicles; identifying at least one trend for at least one operational metric extrapolated from the stored GPS data; identifying at least one industry benchmark derived from industry data; providing, for a graphic user interface, a representation including a comparison of the at least one trend from the GPS event data against the at least one industry benchmark, identifying a trend for a given operational metric for a first time period of the given operational metric, the given operational metric being derived from the GPS event data; providing for setting, based on the trend for the given operational metric for the first time period, a criterion for the given operational metric, identifying a trend for the given operational metric for a second time period of the given operational metric, the second time period ending following the setting of the criterion; comparing the trend for the given operational metric for the first time period against the trend for the given operational metric for the second time period to identify a change of performance for the trend for the given operational metric; and determining if the change of performance for the trend for the given operational metric meets the criterion.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the operational metric is selected from the group consisting of: engine on/off, vehicle mileage, idling, speed, performance against a criterion, employee performance, driver behavior, and fleet performance.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein method further comprises: analyzing the GPS event data for at least one driver's performance for at least one operational metric; and identifying a change in performance in the at least one operational metric over a time period; providing, for the graphic user interface, a graphic representation of a trend showing the change in performance for the at least one operational metric.
 14. The method of claim 12, wherein method further comprises: analyzing the GPS event data for a plurality drivers' performance for at least one operational metric; and providing, for the graphic user interface, the representation of a trend for each of the drivers' performance.
 15. The method of claim 14 wherein method further comprises: comparing the GPS event data for at least one vehicle against industry data; providing, for the graphic user interface, the representation of the trend of the driver's performance against benchmark trend derived from the industry data.
 16. The method of claim 11, wherein method further comprises: providing, for the graphic user interface, the representation of the trend in the form of an alert.
 17. The method of claim 11, wherein method further comprises: deriving speed and location data from the GPS event data; analyzing the GPS event database for at least one vehicle's historical GPS event data; comparing the historical GPS event data against traffic data from a traffic database; identifying a traffic condition for the location; and remodeling at least one solution to optimize performance based on the traffic condition.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the at least one solution including at least one of: a time shift; and rerouting the vehicle.
 19. The method of claim 11, wherein method further comprises: providing, for the graphic user interface, an alert when an operational metric for a vehicle meets or exceeds at least one predetermined criterion established for the operational metric.
 20. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium encoded with instructions that, when executed by at least one processor within a computer system that comprises one or more processors and a non-transitory memory operatively coupled to at least one of the processors, cause the computer system at least to: receive GPS event data transmitted from a plurality of GPS devices, each GPS device associated with a vehicle; store the GPS data, for each vehicle, over a period of time of at least one month in a GPS event database operatively coupled to at least one of the processors; analyze the GPS event data to derive a plurality of operational metrics for each of the GPS associated vehicle; identify at least one trend for at least one operational metric extrapolated from the GPS event data; identify the at least one industry benchmark derived from industry data; provide, for a graphic user interface, a representation including a comparison of the at least one trend from the GPS event data against the at least one industry benchmark; identify a trend for a given operational metric for a first time period of the given operational metric, the given operational metric being derived from the GPS event data; provide for setting, based on the trend for the given operational metric for the first time period, a criterion for the given operational metric; identify a trend for the given operational metric for a second time period of the given operational metric, the second time period ending following the setting of the criterion; compare the trend for the given operational metric for the first time period against the trend for the given operational metric for the second time period to identify a change of performance for the trend for the given operational metric; and determine if the change of performance for the given operational metric meets the criterion. 